A total number of 324 Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) are located across Germany.

*118 universities, including universities of technology, theological universities, comprehensive universities nad colleges of education.

*52 colleges of music, art and film.

*154 universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulesn).

University-level education:
Should one opt for the university-level studies, the first step is the Grundstudium, which offers basic studies. The duration of Grundstudium is usually four semesters, after which the student gests a degree of Diplom-Vorprüfung. Some universities also offer a Bachelor’s degree. One can begin one’s career at this stage itself. Or the student can move on to Hauptstudium, which offers more advanced studies. It usually consists of about four to six additional semesters, at the end of which the student is awarded a Diplom. A Masters’ degree (Magister) may be awarded after Magister examinations. Finally, the student can move on to do his doctoral studies (Aufbaustudium / Ergänzungsstudium). This consists of independent research, which may take upto two to four years of independent studies followed by submission of a thesis. Following this, there is a Viva, or oral examination (Rigorosum), and only students who clear it are awarded the degree of Doktor. Even above it is the Habilitation, which qualifies the person to teach or conduct research.

Non university-level education:

     Technical Universities
The Höhere Fachschulen and Akademien usually provide non-university education. Students with an Abitur or Fachhochschulreife degree with at least two years of practical experience are offered advanced technical courses. The Berufsakadamien offer theoretical knowledge as well as hands-on training, and furnish students with entry-level qualifications for specific professional courses such as engineering and business management. 
    Fachhochschulen 
Practical study courses in Engineering, Economics, Social Work, Public and Legal Administration and Health and Therapy are offered by the Fachhochschulen. More and more students now prefer to opt for the Fachhochschulen, because of the shorter study-period and more practical focus as compared to university studies. There are also higher-level vocational and technical institutes known as Kollegs. All these institutes offer a Diploma.

Comparison between Universities (Universitaet) and Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule)

   Art and Music Colleges
These colleges focus on training students to become professional musicians and artistes. 
There are also a number of institutes that focus on particular subjects such as sports, veterinary science, medicine, and so forth.
  Distance Education
Non-degree Study at a U.S. University